GLRPPR Sector Resource: SunOpta Healthy Fruit Snacks: Washington Manufacturer Saves $100,000 per Year
Title:
SunOpta Healthy Fruit Snacks: Washington Manufacturer Saves $100,000 per Year
Abstract:
SunOpta Healthy Fruit Snacks, a food processor in Omak, set goals to improve efficiencies and cut waste in their operations. To achieve the goals, the company turned to Impact Washington for lean manufacturing facilitation. SunOpta enhanced these lean efforts by adding energy reduction and environmental improvements for even more savings. Washington State University Extension Energy Program and the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) provided technical assistance. Ecology also provided a grant to cover a portion of the project costs.
Results of the four partners' work included:
-- SunOpta saved $84,000 annually on their electric bill through more efficient use of cold storage space.
-- They saved $10,000 per year by recycling pallets and $3,900 per year by replacing paper towels with efficient air hand dryers.
-- They insulated and segregated hot equipment and pipes to make the production workspace cooler and safer for workers during hot summer months.
-- They reduced solid waste by 64 tons per year.
-- They increased employee participation and creativity to spur greater company success.
Their success can be attributed to corporate leadership setting sustainability goals, the employees who took ownership of improvement efforts, and the public/private partnerships forged.
URL:
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/hwtr/P2/success/SunOpta.html
Source:
Washington State Department of Ecology
Resource Type:
Case study/success story
Date of Publication:
2012
Associated Sectors:
